There Was An Old Woman Who Swallowed A Fly And Other Heroines That Reach For...

Presented by theater companies from around the country, FringeJR, the family-friendly arm of the New York International Fringe Festival, stages four shows that are accessible to young audiences, yet offbeat and funny enough to keep moms and dads entertained.

Goldilocks and the Three Polar Bears Goldilocks gets shipped off to the North Pole in this eco-friendly twist on the familiar fable. When her selfishness wreaks havoc on the polar bears' home, the girl learns that we're all part of the same global family. Expect a mix of puppet and human performers, plus songs like "Bear-hemian Rhapsody." Ages 5 to 10.

Happy Worst Day Ever An American Idol--like singing competition is at the center of playwright Arlene Hutton's comedy, which was inspired by a viral video of hysterical tween fans. In a story about self-identity, school cliques and the power of pop culture, the most popular girl in sixth grade and the nerdiest boy forge an unlikely friendship. Ages 10 to 12.

Istwa! Storytime for a Small World Ten actors play all the parts—and all the scenery—in the often hilarious retelling of folktales from around the world. Restless kids will get a kick out of the "participation journey" in the middle of the show, when the ensemble guides the audience through an imaginary adventure of their own. Ages 8 to 10.

There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly and Other Heroines That Reach for the Sky! Girls are the heroes of these four little-known fairy tales from Japan, Norway, Africa and Iran. Each teaches kids that there are more important things in life than being big and strong. Ages 5 to 7.

The New York International Fringe Festival runs from Aug 12 to 28 at various city venues. For more information, visit fringenyc.org or call 212-279-4488. Tickets $10--$18.